Biologists began the program in April, several moths ahead of schedule. They say a below-normal winter and critically dry spring caused the Carmel River to recede sooner and farther, endangering the threatened steelhead population.

They use two methods to trap the fish. One is electroshock, which sends a mild current through the water. Another is by nets, which are able to catch more fish in deeper and muddier areas.

"The fish we rescue are taken upstream to sleep hollow rearing facility which is model...only puts in simulated stream and attempts to keep them as wild as possible." said biologist Kevan Urqhart, with the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District.

The rescued trout are reared at the district's facility for up to four weeks until the water returns to the river, at which time they're released.